Probably “unventing” this, but I started with the linked pattern, then went smaller…and all in garter stitch…I’ll leave good notes. :)

Made this for the son of someone I don’t know well, but who is apparently knit-worthy. The thank you card read: “It was very thoughtful of you to make the USA soccer ball for Liam for his Birthday - he loved it and now sleeps with it in his crib! He mentioned what fine knitting work it is and how soft it feels on his face. ‘True craftsmanship,’ I heard him say as he was falling asleep. Thanks for thinking of my son on his birthday!”